Stay on Trend with Plant-Based Proteins in Salads and Grain Bowls

Non-meat proteins are a huge trend due to changes in eating habits.

There was a time when if someone heard “plant-based protein” they thought of a veggie burger or maybe some odd tofu-loaf concoction. However as people become more concerned about where their food comes from, these meat alternatives are becoming more and more popular.

The Call for Plant-Based Proteins
Consumers are focusing on well being. People believe plant-based foods improve overall health and help with weight management.1 Salad and grain bowls already have a serious healthy halo, and topping them with non-meat proteins only adds to their appeal.

These plant-based proteins don’t necessarily have to mimic the flavour or texture of meat. A recent survey showed 48% of people found a grain bowl with nuts, legumes and an amazing dressing to be just as satisfying as a meat-and-potatoes plate.2

Their Role in Foodservice
In North America, consumers are actively trying to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diets (39% of Americans and 43% of Canadians).1 Gen Z is more likely to eat plant-based foods because someone in their family or circle of friends is vegetarian or vegan.3 A few others reasons consumers stated:

They’re healthier (49%)

To try something new (31%)

To eat less meat/dairy (22%)

They taste better (18%)

They’re trendy (8%)

Grains are leading the way in plant-based protein menu innovation. Chefs and operators are finding all kinds of creative ways to add grains to their mix. In a recent two-year period, grains increased 26% in menu incidence, while meat substitutes were actually down slightly during the same period.4